The leaves of Quercus velutina are simple and alternate with sharp-pointed lobes and they can be similar in general appearance to Q. ellipsoidalis. The scales of the caps of Q. velutina acorns are more loosely spreading and more thoroughly pubescent than those of Q. ellipsoidalis. The buds are also more pubescent and larger than those of Q. ellipsoidalis.

Quercus velutina ranges from New York to Georgia and west to Texas and Wisconsin. The main distribution in Wisconsin is in the southwestern portion of the state, but there are isolated populations at least as far north as Brown County..